The best automatic doors for restaurants

In the hospitality sector, every detail counts when it comes to providing a good customer experience: from the culinary offering to the design of the premises. Restaurants are busy establishments, which is why their entrances are a very important aspect. Automatic doors are a solution that meets accessibility requirements, removing any architectural barriers; they are functional, speeding up the flow of staff and customers; they are safe, as contactless access minimises the risk of cross-contamination; and they are comfortable, optimising the venue’s climate control and contributing to energy savings. 

Manusa’s range of automatic doors for restaurants meets the specific needs of each venue, such as optimising customer flow at the main entrance, improving the connection between the dining area and the kitchen, ensuring hygiene, providing fire safety, and blending in architecturally with the venue’s design and character. In this article, we analyse the needs of restaurants and the most recommended solutions. 

What does the catering sector need?

The operational needs of bars and restaurants are very varied. Staff need to move swiftly between the kitchen, the dining room and the terrace, and they usually do so with their hands full. Clients expect to enjoy a comfortable dining experience tailored to families with pushchairs, people with reduced mobility, and so on. 

Therefore, when choosing solutions for the various access points, the following should be taken into account: 

• Constant flow of people: At peak times, there is a high volume of clients, staff and home delivery drivers. Manual doors slow down the flow of people and can cause inconvenience or unnecessary delays.
• Hygiene and food safety: Minimising physical contact with surfaces is essential in the hospitality industry. Preventing staff and customers from having to touch door handles reduces the transfer of bacteria and contaminants.
• Climate control and insulation: Kitchens generate noise, fumes and strong odours that must not be allowed to seep into the dining area. Doors that are left open reduce thermal comfort and increase energy consumption.

What are the best models of automatic doors for restaurants? 

To meet these needs, at Manusa we offer a range of models that combine technology, design and maximum durability:

1. Automatic sliding doors

Automatic sliding doors are perfect for a restaurant’s main entrance. Operated by smart motion sensors, they ensure rapid opening and efficient closing, activating only when necessary.

They allow for a smooth flow of traffic free from architectural barriers, ideal for pushchairs or people with reduced mobility. They maintain a stable indoor temperature in both winter and summer. If the premises have limited space, telescopic doors maximise the usable passageway.

2. Automatic anti-panic sliding door

In restaurants with high foot traffic or those requiring wide evacuation routes, the automatic anti-panic sliding door combines the convenience of an automatic door with the ability to swing the leaves open to significantly widen the passageway. This solution facilitates the evacuation of people in the event of an emergency without compromising day-to-day accessibility and functionality.

3. EI fire-resistant automatic door for kitchens

The partition between the kitchen and the dining area requires special attention. The EI fire-resistant automatic sliding door offers added safety by acting as a barrier in the event of smoke and flames spreading. This model features a sealing system made from fire-retardant materials and can be connected to the fire alarm system, amongst other advantages. 

4. Automatic swing doors

If your restaurant has structural doors that cannot be replaced with a sliding system, automation using swing operators is the best alternative. Automatic swing doors make the most of the available space, facilitate the flow of people and can be customised with a wide variety of accessories. They can be installed to open to the right or left, either by pulling or pushing. 

This system includes a single operator with a minimalist-design cover to activate the doors. It also offers a wide range of options to customise the door and adapt it to the style of your premises. 

Access solutions for restaurants are highly varied and can be adapted to suit different spaces. If you need advice on installing automatic doors in your restaurant, please contact Manusa and our team of professionals will help you find the best solution.